The delay in the release of the Super Eagles list for the Qatar 2022 World Cup qualifiers might not be unconnected with the stance of teams in the English Premier League and La Liga unwilling to release players during the upcoming international break due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Super Eagles are excepted to host the Lone Star of Liberia in Lagos on September 3 before playing way to Blue Sharks of Cape Verde four days later.
But NationSport gathered on good authority that Super Eagles German coach Gernot Rohr is taking his time due to the on-going COVID-19 Spat with EPL clubs decision not to release players of the red-listed countries including Cape Verde.
“It is a serious dilemma for coach Gernot Rohr just like several other managers who has players in the EPL and La Liga, “ an official said last night.“ Bu I think he will release the list as soon as possible once the issue of releasing players by the EPL and La Liga club is resolved .”
Meanwhile, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reportedly appealed to the British Government to make a special exemption for players from the EPL to still honour next month’s World Cup qualifiers even in red-listed countries.
Players who play in red-listed countries will have to quarantine for 10 days on return to England and the Premier League clubs said they cannot afford this. Bu the FIFA president called on support from the various league and clubs at this trying period of the Coronavirus Pandemic.
“We have faced global problems together in the past and must continue to do so in the future. The release of players in the upcoming international windows is a matter of great urgency and importance,” he urged.
“I am grateful for the support and cooperation from many stakeholders in the game during this challenging period.
“I am calling on a show of solidarity from every member association, every league, and every club, to do what is both right and fair for the global game.
“Many of the best players in the world compete in leagues in England and Spain, and we believe these countries also share the responsibility to preserve and protect the sporting integrity of competitions around the world.”